They say you can’t teach an old dog new tricks, but I beg to differ. Hitting 50 They say you can’t teach an old dog new tricks, but I’ve found that hitting 50 is the perfect time to prove that old saying wrong. For me, lifelong learning has been one of the most rewarding adventures of my life. There’s something incredibly empowering about picking up a new skill or exploring a subject you’ve always been curious about – and with online courses, it’s never been easier.
If you’re like me and love the idea of keeping your mind sharp, staying engaged, and maybe even surprising yourself with what you can achieve, then let me share some of the best online courses I’ve come across. These have been a game-changer for me, and I think they could be for you too.
Why I Believe in Lifelong Learning
When I turned 50, I realised that learning doesn’t stop just because we’ve left school or ticked off certain life milestones. In fact, it’s one of the best ways to keep life exciting. Whether it’s mastering a new hobby, boosting your confidence, or simply satisfying your curiosity, learning keeps us feeling vibrant and connected.
And let’s not forget the health benefits! Studies show that staying mentally active can improve memory, reduce stress, and even help stave off cognitive decline. For me, it’s been a way to challenge myself, meet like-minded people, and keep my brain buzzing with fresh ideas.
My Favourite Platforms for Lifelong Learning
Here are some of the platforms I’ve personally tried (and loved) for online learning. They’ve opened up a world of possibilities for me, and I hope they do the same for you.
1. Skillshare – Perfect for Creative Souls
I started with Skillshare because I wanted to try something creative. It’s packed with classes on everything from painting to photography to creative writing. The lessons are short and easy to follow, which is great when you’re juggling a busy schedule.
Courses I Loved:
- Watercolour for Beginners – I may not be Picasso, but I’ve created a few pieces I’m proud of!
- Photography Basics – Learning to use my camera properly has been a game-changer.
- Creative Writing 101 – Who knows? Maybe there’s a novel in me yet.
2. LinkedIn Learning – Boosting My Professional Skills
Even though I’m past the stage of climbing the corporate ladder, I still enjoy brushing up on professional skills. LinkedIn Learning has been brilliant for that.
Highlights for Me:
- Time Management for Remote Workers – Let’s just say I’ve become a bit of a pro at avoiding procrastination.
- Digital Marketing Essentials – Perfect for anyone thinking of starting a blog or side hustle (like me!).
- Public Speaking Confidence – This one really helped me feel more comfortable in group settings.
3. Duolingo – Learning a New Language
I’ve always wanted to learn a new language, and Duolingo made it fun and surprisingly addictive. I started with French – partly for the romance, partly for the cheese and wine holidays!
The bite-sized lessons are perfect for fitting into my day, and it’s incredibly satisfying to see my progress. If you’re planning a trip abroad or just want to exercise your brain, I highly recommend giving it a go.
4. Coursera – Expanding My Horizons
Coursera has been my go-to for more academic-style learning. Partnering with top universities, they offer courses on everything from history to psychology.
Courses That Stood Out:
- The Science of Well-Being (Yale University) – This course gave me practical tips for living a happier, more fulfilling life.
- A Brief History of Humankind – Fascinating and thought-provoking.
- Introduction to Psychology – It’s amazing to learn how the human mind works.
5. Domestika – Getting Crafty
I’ve always loved working with my hands, and Domestika has been a wonderful platform for exploring that side of myself. The courses are beautifully produced and full of practical advice.
Courses I’ve Enjoyed:
- Knitting for Beginners – It’s surprisingly meditative, and I’ve made some cosy scarves!
- Interior Design Basics – This helped me refresh my living space.
- Cake Decorating 101 – A fun way to impress family and friends.
6. Udemy – Personal Growth at Its Best
Udemy has been a treasure trove for personal development. Whether I’m looking to build confidence or manage stress, there’s always a course that fits the bill.
What I’ve Learned:
- Mindfulness for Beginners – A lifesaver for staying calm and focused.
- Confidence Mastery – This one gave me a real boost.
- Declutter Your Home, Declutter Your Mind – Perfect for a fresh start.
Why You Should Give Lifelong Learning a Go
For me, lifelong learning has been about more than just gaining knowledge – it’s been a way to rediscover myself. It’s reminded me that it’s never too late to start something new, challenge myself, or simply have fun exploring a subject I love.
If you’ve been thinking about learning something new, I say go for it. Whether it’s a creative hobby, a practical skill, or a deep dive into an academic topic, there’s so much out there waiting for you.
So, grab your laptop or tablet, pick a course, and dive in. You might just surprise yourself with what you’re capable of. And who knows? Maybe we’ll bump into each other in an online class someday.
Here’s to lifelong learning and the joy of discovery – because life after 50 is just the beginning. Cheers!